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Hill City

Hill City, SD, USA

Hill City

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Hill City

Welcome to Hill City, the heart of the Black Hills! This charming town is bursting with adventure, from exploring the nearby Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse memorials to sipping wine at local wineries. Don't forget to hop aboard the 1880 train for a nostalgic ride through the stunning scenery. Get ready for a wild ride in Hill City!

Recommendations

Landmark4.7/5

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Get ready for monumental fun at Mount Rushmore National Memorial! Located in Keystone, South Dakota, this iconic landmark features the incredible rock-carved faces of four legendary U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Marvel at the stunning craftsmanship and snap some epic selfies with these larger-than-life figures. A must-visit destination for history buffs and selfie enthusiasts alike!

Landmark4.7/5

1880 Train - Hill City Depot

The 1880 Train - Hill City Depot offers a nostalgic journey through the Black Hills, showcasing vintage steam locomotives and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for history and train enthusiasts alike.

Outdoor4.9/5

Sylvan Lake

Granite rocks rise from this South Dakota lake, with a trail circling the shore. A May thaw left ice and snow on one half, while the other half had already turned to spring.

Eat$$$4.5/5

Desperados

Step into Desperados in Hill City, SD, where the spirit of the Wild West meets modern flair! This lively saloon boasts mouthwatering nachos and killer margaritas, perfect after a day of exploring the Black Hills. Enjoy live music, friendly faces, and a festive atmosphere—it's the ideal pitstop for adventure seekers and fun-lovers alike! Saddle up and join the fun!

Eat4.8/5

Lost Cabin Beer Co. - Hill City Beer Garden

Hill City's brewery has a beer garden with sunny and shaded seating, plus comfortable indoor space. The Mickelson Trail runs right past the yard.

Eat4.7/5

Prairie Berry Winery

This Hill City winery pairs wine tastings with lunch, including sandwiches and charcuterie. One of its wines is called Rosy Ass Rhubarb.

Eat4.3/5

Turtle Town

Chocolate-and-ice-cream shop with fudge, truffles, macaroons and sundaes.

Eat$$$4.2/5

Bumpin Buffalo Bar and Grill

Looking for a taste of the Wild West? Head to Bumpin Buffalo Bar and Grill on Main St in Hill City, SD. This lively spot serves up delicious buffalo burgers and cold drinks, perfect for fueling up after a day of exploring the Black Hills. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and live music while you chow down!

Stays

Stay4.7/5

Trails End Cabins & Motel

Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Trails End Cabins & Motel offers a charming escape with cozy accommodations and easy access to stunning natural beauty, making it a perfect base for adventure seekers.

Stay4.5/5

Lodge at Palmer Gulch

Welcome to Lodge at Palmer Gulch! Located in the heart of the Black Hills, this cozy retreat offers a mix of modern amenities and rustic charm. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, roast marshmallows around the fire pit, and explore nearby Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park. Your next adventure awaits at our Hill City oasis!

Stay4.3/5

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hill City-Mt. Rushmore Area, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express with a pool and breakfast.

Stay4.2/5

Sylvan Lake Lodge

Custer State Park lodge with cabins, a restaurant and bar. Some rooms and the dining patio look toward Sylvan Lake, with the granite Needles beyond.

Stay4.7/5

Alpine Inn

Hill City restaurant serving schnitzel by day and bacon-wrapped filet at dinner. A pager lets you wait on the porch.

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5
6 h

Twilight Tour: Custer State Park & Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony

Experience the stunning beauty of the Black Hills on this unforgettable private afternoon & evening tour, designed to highlight the region’s most scenic drives & end with the Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony. First, we visit the tranquil Sylvan Lake, nestled among pine-covered hills & dramatic rock formations. We continue with a picturesque journey along the legendary Needles Hwy, where towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, & sweeping views create an unforgettable drive. You’ll have plenty of time for photo stops, short walks, and commentary from your knowledgeable local guide. Then, travel the engineering marvel of Iron Mt Rd, known for its pigtail bridges, scenic switchbacks, & tunnels that perfectly frame Mt Rushmore in the distance. We arrive at Mt Rushmore with time to explore, then as night falls, gather at the amphitheater for the Lighting Ceremony—a patriotic & heartfelt experience that includes a short film, tribute to veterans, & the illumination of the iconic carvings.

$760.00
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5/5
8 h

Private Mount Rushmore and Flume Trail Hike

This tour gives you incredible in-depth knowledge of the Flume Trail, the Black Hills, and Mount Rushmore.

$365.70
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5/5
3 h

Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony Shared Tour

9 pm Lighting Ceremony: May 22nd - August 9th We would pick you up from your Rapid City hotel at 7:30-7:45 pm in 7 or 12 passenger van depending on if we have others going. It is a 45 minute drive to Mt Rushmore. You would have half an hour to get to the amphitheater to get a seat for the program that starts at 9:00 pm. There is a 10 minute Ranger Talk about some topic about the 4 presidents. After the talk is a 20 minute video about the growth of the country in relation to the 4 presidents. At 9:30 pm, the Star Spangled Banner is sung and the lights go on the faces. Veterans and military are invited to the stage to help retire the flag and be honored. It is about a 45 minute program. We do have blankets for you in your vans if it is a chilly night. But, plan on bringing a jacket as it cools off once the sun goes down. We would get you back to Rapid City around 10:45 pm.

$100.42
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5/5

Stars & Stripes: Mount Rushmore Night Ceremony

Discover the best of the Black Hills on this unforgettable evening adventure. Your tour begins with a scenic drive along the world-famous Iron Mountain Road, a winding masterpiece with pigtail bridges, mountain vistas, and tunnels leading to Mt. Rushmore. Along the way, your guide shares insightful stories of the region’s history, people, and natural beauty. Arriving at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, we’ll stroll the Avenue of the Flags for a first close-up view of the monument. Your guide will bring the story of its creation to life with engaging details about the vision, artistry, and challenges behind this American landmark. As night falls, you’ll take part in the moving Evening Illumination Ceremony, where patriotic music and storytelling culminate in the dramatic lighting of the monument. This tour blends breathtaking scenery with cultural heritage and national pride, making it one of the most memorable ways to experience Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

$795.00
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5/5
72 h

Icons of the West: Black Hills & Badlands 3-Day Tour

This tour covers the three major areas of the Black Hills and Badlands. You can put down the planning, and relax as we take you to the significant points of interest. At times, we may deviate from the itinerary for some surprise visits. We can spend more or less time at each location based on your interests. Our guides are trained in a way that enhances your experience on so many levels. We care about your time here most of all and are willing to go out of our way to ensure you have an excellent experience. Photography is something we love as well, and photos will be provided at the end of each day, free of charge.

$1,995.00
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5/5
4 h

Private Mount Rushmore Lighting Tour w/ Former Park Ranger

Experience Mount Rushmore in its most powerful setting — illuminated against the evening sky with your private guide who served as a National Park Ranger and once delivered the official evening program. Your private evening begins with scenic travel into the Black Hills and ascending Iron Mountain Road, where granite tunnels frame distant views of the the presidents faces. Upon arrival, you’ll explore the memorial in person. You’ll hear the deeper stories of engineering challenges, the unfinished chamber behind the faces, tools still embedded in the granite, and the human drama behind the carving of the mountain itself. As twilight settles, you’ll attend the official Evening Lighting Ceremony — a moving program of history, film, illumination, and tribute. Watching the sculpture emerge from darkness into light is a powerful and reflective moment. You'll return through the quiet Black Hills with memories lingering long after the lights fade.

$195.00
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5/5

Black Hills Discovery Tour Southern Hills

Explore the iconic Black Hills with this comprehensive day-long tour. Discover the grandeur of Mount Rushmore, America's Shrine to Democracy, and witness the ongoing work at the Crazy Horse Memorial, the largest mountain sculpture in progress. Navigate through the stunning Needles Highway, where breathtaking views abound, and immerse yourself in the wildlife of Custer State Park, home to bison, deer, and more. The tour includes admission to all attractions and provides a comfortable experience in small groups of 12 or fewer, ensuring a personal and engaging journey through South Dakota's rich history and natural beauty. - Small group sizes for a personalized tour experience - Stops at Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park - Admission fees included, with lunch at the historic Custer State Game Lodge (meal not included) - Free pickup and drop-off from local accommodations in the area

$199.00
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5/5
120 h

Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Northern Parks Bundle

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided audio tour bundle to make the most of your road trips to the best Northern US national parks and scenic drives. This collection of iconic destinations includes Beartooth Highway, Big Sky Drive, the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, Badlands, Glacier, Grand Teton, Olympic, Rocky Mountain, Theodore Roosevelt, and Yellowstone National Parks. Along the drive, hear stories play automatically as you explore geysers, mountains, and wildlife, ensuring a memorable adventure to these incredible locations. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use No time limits or expiry, and free updates Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one bundle per vehicle.

$74.99
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5/5
8 h

Private Mount Rushmore & Black Hills Tour w/ Former Park Ranger

Explore the Black Hills with a former National Park Ranger on a private, personalized tour designed around your interests. Visit landscapes where your guide lived and worked as a ranger and conducted master’s research, gaining firsthand insight into the wildlife and landscapes of the region — including the iconic buffalo herds of Custer State Park. Explore Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse National Memorials going beyond the typical stops with deeper stories of wildlife, geology, and history, plus scenic viewpoints and insights most visitors never experience. Fully private, completely personalized, and led by someone who calls these parks home — this is the Black Hills experience you won't find anywhere else.

$395.00
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5/5
168 h

Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Devils Tower and Mount Rushmore 7-day Tour

Take a tour through the world's first national park and monument as well as many other famous landmarks. This tour takes you to the world's first national park, Yellowstone and national monument, Devils Tower. Starting off in Salt Lake City, you will travel through the Grand Teton’s and take in this massive mountain range. In Yellowstone, see vibrant colors and exploding geysers. Afterwards, enjoy one of the symbols of America, Mount Rushmore. Finish off the tour with exploring the Black Hills of South Dakota and see the world’s largest statue. At Nomad Unlimited Adventures, flexibility is at the heart of our tours. With our “2CanGo” promise, this tour operates with a minimum of 2 guests and departure is guaranteed once two guests book. Group size is limited to 2–8 travelers, allowing for more personal attention, attentive service, and a relaxed travel pace. Additional destinations, itinerary adjustments, or special requests may be discussed in advance.

$3,545.00
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5/5

Snow-Capped Escapes: Black Hills in Winter

This entirely private, customizable tour will tantalize the senses and take you to places only a local would know. Plus, you'll love it! Our tours are custom made, quant, curious, and fun. We'll also take photos along the way and provide them complimentary at the end of the tour. It's our honor to host and our pleasure to be your choice when visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota.

$295.00
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5/5
8 h

Mount Rushmore Discovery Tour

You visit Mount Rushmore, one of our nation's national treasures, and Custer State Park, one of our nation's largest and most diverse state parks. This is the perfect tour for families looking to combine sightseeing with a history of the area. You'll be provided with the history of the Black Hills in the context of the western expansion across North America. Custer State Park is home to an abundance of wildlife and a free roaming 1,500 herd of bison. You'll also be provided with the historical background for how the faces of four important founding fathers came to be carved on Mount Rushmore.

$275.00
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5/5

Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

Mount Rushmore is more than just the carvings. They have secrets that are not easily revealed. GeoFunTrek's guides are local experts with decades of experience. We have no seasonal guides, part-time guides or trainees. This is a family-owned business and all tours are conducted by family members: Cindy, Christopher and John Esposti. We have the knowledge and skills to make your day one to remember. You will always get the A-team when you tour with GeoFunTrek Tours! All tours are PRIVATE TOURS, exclusive to the group booking the tour, and no additional guests will be included. Children must be accompanied by one adult. Children 3 years and younger are free and will have their own seat. Children's car seats must be supplied by family members when required. Our vehicles are SUV's, and a larger vehicle (van) may be rented for larger groups. This is a great tour for 3-generation families with Children, multiple couples and groups of friends.

$450.00
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5/5
9 h

PREMIER PRIVATE Tour: Mt Rushmore, CrazyHorse & Custer State Park

The best of the Black Hills in one day! Our most popular tour, and a wonderful way to make the most of your time in the beautiful Black Hills. Our experienced, local guides will take you to the highlights of the area. Private tour means you have more time to enjoy the things you want to see, a truly unique and personal experience. This tour is customizable. Questions? Contact us for more information.

$475.00
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5/5
8 h

Private Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park Monument Tour

Discover the most iconic landmarks of South Dakota on this full-day guided tour through the stunning Black Hills. Explore the legacy of Mount Rushmore, the cultural significance of Crazy Horse Memorial, & the untamed beauty of Custer State Park—all in one unforgettable day. Start your day at Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four presidents are carved into granite. Walk the Avenue of Flags, enjoy the views, & learn the story behind this American monument. Next, visit Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest mountain carving in progress. This monument honors Lakota leader Crazy Horse & celebrates Native American heritage. Tour the museum & see Lakota dancers. Your journey continues into Custer State Park, filled with dramatic granite peaks, pine-covered hills, and open prairie. Drive Wildlife Loop Rd, where you may encounter bison, pronghorn antelope, wild burros, & more.

$365.70
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5/5

Exclusive: Rushmore, Custer State Park & Crazy Horse

Welcome to My XO Adventures! This is your tour, for your group! We don't mix with strangers on this adventure to ensure it's extraordinary. Your tour will be unscripted, unique, and back-road driven. We are always tuned in to your particular interests and automatically adjust accordingly. We aim to ensure you've had the most amazing experience possible. We do what we want, when we want, where we want. Think of it as the difference between a fast-food burger and a gourmet steak. We’ll customize your experience based on your interests, timing, and comfort level. Our extensive knowledge of the Black Hills means you’ll see famous spots and hidden gems that other tours can’t reach. This is your exclusive adventure, designed to create unforgettable memories in the Black Hills. We'll take you anywhere in the Black Hills within an 8-10 hour time period. Lunch is included.

$647.50
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5/5

Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Tour

What makes this tour unique is the combination of three of Western South Dakota's most iconic destinations – Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park Wildlife Loop – into a single, comprehensive, and fully narrated experience. Over 8-9 hours, you'll not just see these landmarks, but gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for their history, cultural significance, and natural beauty. We always give the guest time to buy their lunch during the tour.

$311.82
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5/5
4 h

Private Half Day Mt Rushmore & Black Hills Tour

Take in the best of the Black Hills on this half-day tour. We visit the must-see's of Mt Rushmore, Needles Hwy, Sylvan Lake and Iron Mountain Road. Experience Mt Rushmore with a local expert and make the most of your time in the Black Hills.

$350.00
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5/5

Mount Rushmore Memorial Shared Tour from Rapid City, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a massive sculpture carved into Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. Completed in 1941 under the direction of Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln, the sculpture’s roughly 60-ft.-high granite faces depict U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. The site also features a museum with interactive exhibits.

$163.84
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4.8/5
3 h

Mt Rushmore 8pm Lighting Ceremony Shared Tour

We would pick you up from your Rapid City hotel at 6:30-6:45 pm in 7 or 12 passenger van depending on if we have others going. It is a 45 minute drive to Mt Rushmore. You would have half an hour to get to the amphitheater to get a seat for the program that starts at 8:00 pm. There is a 10 minute Ranger Talk about some topic about the 4 presidents. After the talk is a 20 minute video about the growth of the country in relation to the 4 presidents. At 8:30 pm, the Star Spangled Banner is sung and the lights go on the faces. Veterans and military are invited to the stage to help retire the flag and be honored. It is about a 45 minute program. We do have blankets for you in your vans if it is a chilly night. But, plan on bringing a jacket as it cools off once the sun goes down. We would get you back to Rapid City around 9:45 pm.

$100.42
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